Delay in satellite interest licences: Senator Sarmad submits a call attention notice

ISLAMABAD: The issue of delays in issuing satellite internet service licenses has reached parliament, as Senator Sarmad Ali submitted a call attention notice in the parliament’s upper house, urging the federal government to explain the prolonged hold-up.

In the notice, the senator highlighted that delays in regulatory approvals are affecting companies interested in entering Pakistan’s market. At least five satellite internet firms are reportedly awaiting the final clearance.

According to the notice, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has already completed most requirements necessary for launching satellite-based internet services. However, registration with the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB) remains pending, causing what the notice describes as “unnecessary delays” in licence issuance.

The senator has called on the federal IT minister and relevant authorities to clarify the reasons behind the delays and provide a timeline for when licences will be issued.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026